Structure of the Constitution

By Gabby Hutter

Structure of the Constitution

By Gabby Hutter

Mnemonic Device

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Article I

This article outlines the powers of the legislative branch. The "L" in the mnemonic device stands for "legislative". The legislative branch makes the laws. Congress is the law making body. This is the longest section of the articles.

Article II

Article II is associated with "executive" in the mnemonic device. This is the article that outlines the powers of the executive branch. The executive branch consists of the president, vice president, and his advisers. All the presidential powers are listed in this article.

Article III

Article III outlines the judicial branch, hence the "J" in the mnemonic device. Federal courts make up the judicial branch. This branch interprets the laws.

Article IV

Article IV deals with the states. The first "S" in the mnemonic device stands for "states". This article explains state relationships how they must interact with each other), admitting new states and state governments.

Article V

The "A" in the mnemonic device stands of "amended." When they say "amend," they mean to change the Constitution. This article goes on to explain the process and requirements of amending the Constitution.

Article VI

This article explains supremacy, hence the "S" in the mnemonic device. The Supremacy Clause is included in this article. This clause explains that the U.S. Constitution is the "supreme law of the land."

Article VII

This is the final article in the Constitution. This article talks about how the Constitution can be ratified. The "R" in the device stands for "ratify." 9 of the 13 states had to agree in order for the things to take effect.